Last Name Akbar

The last name "Akbar" has Persian and Arabic origins. In Arabic, "Akbar" means "Great" or "Greatest," while in Persian, it means "largest" or "greatest." This last name is often associated with Islamic cultures and regions where Arabic or Persian are spoken. It is also a common first name in many Islamic cultures.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Akbar

The meaning and origin of the last name Akbar

Akbar is a surname of Arabic origin that means "great" or "mightiest" in English. It is derived from the Arabic word 'Akbar', which is a superlative form of 'Kabir', meaning "great" in Arabic. The surname is often used as a title of honor or respect in Muslim cultures, and is commonly associated with the Mughal emperor Akbar the Great, who ruled a vast empire in India during the 16th century. The surname may have been adopted by individuals as a way to show their lineage or connection to the emperor or to signify their own greatness or importance within their community. Today, the surname Akbar is found in various countries with significant Muslim populations, such as Pakistan, Bangladesh, and India.

Geographical distribution of the last name Akbar

The last name Akbar is predominantly found in countries with a significant Muslim population, such as Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Indonesia. In Pakistan, Akbar is a relatively common surname, particularly in the Punjab region. The name is also prevalent in India, especially in the states of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Outside of South Asia, Akbar can be found in Middle Eastern countries like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Additionally, communities of individuals with the last name Akbar can be found in Western countries with large Muslim immigrant populations, such as the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Akbar reflects its Islamic origins and the migration patterns of Muslim communities around the world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Akbar

Akbar is a popular last name with various spelling variations, including Akbar, Aqbar, Aqbari, Akber, Ackbar, and Aqber. These variations may stem from different regions or dialects where the name originates, such as the Middle East, South Asia, or Africa. Despite the differences in spelling, all variations of the name Akbar ultimately derive from Arabic or Persian origins, meaning "great" or "powerful." The name is often used as a surname to denote a person's lineage or as a sign of respect or admiration for someone's accomplishments. Regardless of the spelling, the name Akbar carries a sense of strength and grandeur, making it a popular choice for individuals seeking to convey a sense of dignity and significance through their family name.

Famous people with the last name Akbar

One famous person with the last name Akbar is Mughal Emperor Jalal-ud-Din Muhammad Akbar. He was the third ruler of the Mughal Empire in India and is considered one of the greatest rulers in Indian history. Akbar was known for his progressive policies, religious tolerance, and administrative reforms during his reign in the 16th century. He is also remembered for his cultural advancements and patronage of art and literature. Another notable figure with the last name Akbar is Pakistani-American journalist Fareed Zakaria. He is the host of CNN's Fareed Zakaria GPS and has a distinguished career in journalism, receiving numerous awards for his work. Zakaria is known for his insightful analysis of global politics and world affairs, making him a respected figure in the field of journalism.

Genealogical research on the last name Akbar

The last name Akbar is a common surname of Arabic origin, meaning "great" or "powerful." Genealogical research on the Akbar surname traces its roots back to the Islamic world, particularly in present-day Iran, Pakistan, and India. Many individuals with the last name Akbar can be found throughout history in positions of power and influence, such as Emperors, generals, and scholars. The Akbar family name is also associated with the Mughal Empire, where Emperor Akbar the Great reigned during the 16th century. Descendants of the Akbar lineage have spread across the globe, establishing diverse communities in countries like the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. Today, individuals with the last name Akbar can be found in various professions and industries, carrying on the legacy of their ancestors.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Akbar"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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